Lead Us Not Into Temptation

The phrase 'Lead us not into temptation' in the Lord's Prayer isn't asking God not to tempt us (since James 1:13 confirms He doesn't), but rather requesting protection from tests that would lead to our destruction. We need this protection because we're naturally prone to wandering from God. Temptation works through both active defiance and programmed responses based on our past experiences and trauma. God offers protection through His goodness (tov) and mercy (hesed) that pursue us, redirecting us when we want to turn back to old ways. The ultimate goal is dwelling in God's presence, experiencing His rest even now through the Holy Spirit.